Hemoglobin is a red protein found in the blood that contains iron.(3*) In fact; it is the iron binding the oxygen we breathe in that allows oxygen to circulate throughout our body. The human body possesses 3.5-4.5g of iron and two-thirds of that are found in hemoglobin.(4*) Iron can also be found in bone marrow, the spleen and the liver. There is also a tiny amount of iron in myoglobin, the hemoglobin of the muscles. Myoglobin is oxygen and iron binding protein and is responsible for depositing oxygen into muscle tissue.(5*)

Iron deficiency is the most common mineral nutritional deficiency in the world and leads to low hemoglobin levels.(6*) When those levels are low enough a person is classified as anemic. Indications of anemia include loss of appetite, tiredness, pallor, lack of stamina, insomnia, headaches, and breathlessness.(7*) All of these symptoms are a result of poor oxygen transportation.(8*)

Studies have associated deficiency in iron with reduced brain function.(9*) Infants who have iron deficiency may be at risk of developing behavioral problems and have reduced learning capabilities.(10*)